Residents and Families,

In November 2020, each of our communities enrolled in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care initiative to distribute the COVID-19 vaccination to residents and employees. Vaccines have begun to roll out across our communities and will continue as more vaccines become available. Here are other details of vaccine distribution in our communities:

• The vaccine is not mandatory. Only those who wish to receive it have the opportunity to do so at the community.
• The vaccine is required in two doses; the second dose is given 21-28 days after the first dose and is required for immunity. Immunity (which is projected to be around 95%) will begin around 14 days after receiving the second dose.

While the vaccine is a tremendous step forward in combating COVID-19, we will continue to adhere to all of our current community measures to maintain the well-being of those we work with and serve, including enhanced cleaning protocols, social distancing measures and more. In addition, we ask all residents to continue wearing masks when around others, engage in frequent handwashing and let an employee know if you are experiencing any symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About The COVID-19 Vaccine

Q: Will the vaccine give me COVID-19?

A: None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the United States use the live virus that causes COVID-19. There are several different types of vaccines in development. However, the goal for each of them is to teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19.

Q: Will I test positive for COVID-19 on a viral test after getting vaccinated?

A: Vaccines currently in clinical trials in the United States won’t cause you to test positive on viral tests, which are used to see if you have a current infection. If your body develops an immune response, which is the goal of vaccination, there is a possibility you may test positive on some antibody tests. Antibody tests indicate you had a previous infection and that you may have some level of protection against the virus.

Q: If I’ve already had COVID-19, do I still need to get vaccinated?

A: Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, people may be advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with COVID-19 before.

Q: How do I know if COVID-19 vaccines are safe?

A: COVID-19 vaccines were tested in large clinical trials to make sure they meet safety standards. Many people were recruited to participate in these trials to see how the vaccines offers protection to people of different ages, races, and ethnicities, as well as those with different medical conditions.

Q: Will I experience side effects from receiving the vaccine?

A: The effects of the vaccine are different for everyone. Side effects are not uncommon, and are normal indicators that the body is building protection against the virus. In general, here’s what to expect once you receive the vaccine:

• Common side effects include pain and swelling at the injection site, and fever, chills, tiredness, and headache throughout the body.
• Any side effects should go away after a few days.
• To reduce discomfort, drink plenty of fluids after you receive the vaccine, apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the injection area, and use/exercise your arm.

For more information about COVID-19 prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/COVID19.